"Writing Checks For Points System" Olga, Teacher

"In regards to points, my kids got bored. So, I made them check books where they earn credit as they complete work. I also use a response cost system where they have to pay fines. They love it because they feel like little adults and will do anything to write a check. This also reinforces math concepts. I usually use it to buy computer time, etc."

"Bubble Gum Machine" Trina Smith, Grade 4 Teacher

"I have a rather big hand drawn bubble gum machine hanging on the front chalk board. My students are encouraged to fill the machine in order to receive a class reward. I stick paper gumballs onto the machine when the class is caught doing something good....proper line up, good listening etc. I also take away gum balls when the class is overly noisy etc.. The kids love seeing the machine fill up with gumballs. When they achieve a full machine, I give them a popcorn party with a movie, extra gym time, or any other appropriate reward. It works for me!"

"Shoulders Up, Shoulders Back" Marge Werden, Teacher

"When I line up the students to go home, to go to computer class, to go to lunch, I say, "Shoulders Up, Shoulders Back!" I first explained to them (in the beginning of the school year) about GREAT posture...and for some reason (smile on my face) this causes them to line up in a WONDERFUL straight line with no talking!"

"This is a Holdup" Julia A. Powers, 4th Grade Teacher

"We had been studying the "Wild West", so when I needed their attention, I would say loudly, " Okay guys, this is a hold-up." This meant for them to freeze where they were and put their hands in the air. The novelty of it was what made it work. But, it did work. I have used it this entire year, and the kids still giggle about it."

"Attention-Getter" Nikki Larry, Gr. 8 teacher

"Our principal uses this one at assemblies and it works in a classroom too. "Clap once if you can hear me," he says in a normal speaking voice. Of course, only the first few rows hear him and respond. So the next command is, "Clap twice if you can hear me." By the third clap, the entire gym is silent and clapping in unison."